heavy duty construction for home machine
brass components
stainless steel casing
large portafilter/basket
large reservoir
great steaming power
Negative Product Points
fairly expensive
questionable customer service
Detailed Commentary
I bought the Silvia as a replacement for a Solis SL-70, which did not suit my needs. I drink almost exclusively straight espresso, and the Silvia really delivers. If you work out nuances of operation. It's not a machine to just jump into and start pulling awesome shots without much forethought. If you're not into having control over every element of producing espresso, look elsewhere (like at the Solis SL-70, which has a crema enhancing portafilter). If you like altering variables in the quest for great espresso, this is the machine for you! I really enjoy varying tamp pressure, fineness of grind, and operational parameters of the Silvia to try and produce the best espresso possible. It is possible to get espresso shots from the Silvia that literally blow away anything I have had out of the coffee shops in my area (although how much is that really saying?). It seems very sensitive to user input, but I like having this control. Others may not. I can't imagine a better espresso machine for the home user who enjoys great espresso (and espresso drinks) and who enjoys a hands-on approach to their craft.
